Coast

Find out more about the 100 miles of the Isle of Man's coastline

Introduction

The coastline of the Isle of Man claims some of the most
stunning and memorable scenery in the British Isles. Shaped
by the restless force of the Irish Sea, it is both timeless and
constantly changing. From the sheer, rough-hewn cliffs of the
south to the long golden strands of the north-west, it embraces
endless contrasts within its modest parameters. Teeming with
seabirds and marine life, it's also steeped in human history: it's
a landscape which tells the fascinating story of an island people
and their relationship with the sea. Let the story unfold as
you discover the Manx coast at your own pace. It is as
inspirational for painters and birdwatchers as it is for surfers
and mountain bikers, so, whatever your interests, the coast will
have something for you.

Best Foot Forward

The Island's coast is a paradise for walkers. A
long-distance footpath called the Raad ny Foillan ('Way of the
Gull') closely hugs the coastline and covers roughly 95 miles in
total. Any section makes for a great walk while tackling the
whole route makes for an epic one! Should you choose to do this, it
is recommended to allow 5 or 6 days and plan your overnight stops
in advance. For the most part, the Raad ny Foillan is never
too far from places to eat and stay.

The Island's profile as a destination for walking holidays has
increased in the last few years, partly due to the popular annual
walking festivals organised by the Isle of Man Government's
Department of Community, Culture and Leisure. In Spring 2008,
the readers of influential Walk magazine voted the Isle of Man as
one of Britain's top walking destinations.

If you like to live closer to the edge, there are also many
places where you can go rock climbing and abseiling.

A Way to the Past

Tiny symbols on a map unfold into fascinating histories once you
start exploring the Manx coast. Castles and fortresses;
disused mines leading deep under the sea; remote lighthouses;
scenes of shipwrecks, ancient places of burial and worship; and
poignant remnants of the Victorian golden days of holidaymaking…a
tour of the coast reveals all these things and more in layers of
history. From the coast, the Manx people have made a living,
repelled invaders and attracted visitors: centuries of toil,
struggle and enterprise have all left their mark, making the Island
a particularly rich place for anyone interested in social,
archaeological, maritime and military history - or just a ripping
good yarn!

The Deep Blue Sea

Marine Life The Island has always been
extremely fortunate in having an abundance of marine mammals.
In recent years, awareness of this has increased hugely, thanks to
the work of marine conversation groups. It is now known that
several species of whale and dolphin pass through Manx waters, from
Harbour Porpoises to Risso's Dolphins and Minke Whales - even the
odd Orca. Basking Sharks - the second largest fish in the
world - also congregate during the summer months to mate and feed,
and spotting them has become a popular local pastime. Seals
are also resident in large numbers: Grey (or Atlantic) Seals are
most populous, with Common Seals seen in smaller numbers.
Diving, boat trips or sea kayaking all improve your chances of a
close encounter with the wonderful life in Manx waters.

Diving The Isle of Man is often named as one of
the best dive sites in Europe by those in the diving
community. Certainly, for anyone willing to brave the Irish
Sea, the rewards are huge. As you might expect, the coast is
littered with shipwrecks and strong tidal currents help to generate
an abundance of marine life. Carpets of bright jewel
Anemones, streaming shoals of Cuckoo Wrasse and perhaps a
face-to-face encounter with a playful young seal: these are just
some of the snapshots you will take home from a Manx dive.
There are several dive clubs, training schools and equipment stores
around the Island, and always knowledgeable people waiting to help
you.

Watersports Our local waters are a great
playground for aquaholics! Take your pick from sailing, surfing,
windsurfing, kayaking or coasteering. The rugged coastline
and ever-changing weather create ideal conditions for adventure and
there is no shortage of experienced, qualified instructors to take
you on them.

Boat Trips There are different kinds of trips
available in the summer months, depending on your interests.
Sea-fishing on the Island is excellent, and putting out to sea
gives it another dimension. Perhaps it's really big fish
you're hoping to spot; if so, a number of local boatmen offer
Basking Shark watching excursions. There are also pleasure
cruises in the summer months for those who just want to unwind on
the open waves. It's also an excellent way to see the
Island's seabirds in their element.